Instructions

1. Measure 8 oz. (1 cup) of water into a kettle for each cup of tea you want to make. If your tap water isn't high quality, use bottled or filtered water to give your tea a better flavor.

2. Bring the water to a full boil if you're making black tea, or slightly below a boil--160 to 180 degrees F.--if you're making green tea.

3. Measure 1 tsp. of loose tea leaves into the teapot for each cup of tea you want to make. Add the boiling water and cover the teapot.

4. Steep the tea for three to five minutes. Don't oversteep or the tea might get bitter.

5. Add some hot tap water to the teacup or mug, swirl it around and pour it out. This will heat up the teacup or mug so the tea stays hot when you pour it.

6. Strain the tea into a teacup or mug, using a fine mesh strainer or a coffee filter. Serve with milk and sugar, or black if you prefer.